By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Hurricane’s Grill is famed for its flame-grilled ribs and steaks. However, a fateful fire that tore through the heart of its flagship Circular Quay location last October tested the tenacity of the team - raging for hours and demanding the efforts of 60 firefighters as it left devastation in its wake - but failed to extinguish their fighting spirit.
"When the fire happened, we initially thought it would be a quick fix. A couple of weeks at the most. However, weeks turned into months and before we knew almost half a year had passed,” says Chief Operating Officer Laura Goldberg.
"Emotionally, it’s been a roller coaster because Circular Quay was our base, our flagship and seeing it reduced to a shell has been hard. The worst part is knowing we were not at fault yet have borne the brunt of the damage. Dealing subsequently with insurance has been exceptionally difficult as the sense of urgency just doesn’t seem to be there.”
Nonetheless, where others might have seen only loss, Laura, alongside her husband Craig, saw an opportunity to rebuild - not just their restaurant, but their connection to the community that had supported them for years. Their Castle Hill location has since become a beacon of resilience, proving that good food, a loyal team and an unshakable spirit can turn adversity into strength.
Instead of retreating, Laura has led Hurricane’s Grill into a new chapter, one built on the values of family, community and perseverance.
"Some of our incredible casual staff have chosen to move on, which is sad because we had such an amazing team. We are hopeful they will return when we reopen. However, we are so fortunate that we have been able to relocate some key staff to our Castle Hill location, as well as our Brighton store.”
Despite the battle scars of fire and the uncertainty that comes with such a significant setback, Laura has stayed true to her vision and her leadership in the industry has not gone unnoticed. This year alone, she has been showered with accolades, from winning the Women in Food and Beverage Award at the Women Changing the World Global Awards to being named Business Person of the Year at the Local Business Awards. Yet, for Laura, these recognitions are not just personal milestones; they are a testament to the power of community-driven hospitality.
"People have asked me why I enter these awards and I always say the same thing: it gives me a platform to raise awareness for the causes that are important to me. Mental health, uplifting women through my ‘women in cafes and restaurants’ Facebook group, ending period poverty through our Share the Dignity Campaign and helping Ronald McDonald House raise money to help sick kids and their families during the most challenging times of their lives.”
Following a recent media dinner at Castle Hill, which showcased the brand’s signature flame-grilled ribs and steaks (alongside some spectacular seafood platters), Hurricane’s continues to pay homage to the unwavering spirit of the industry, the local suppliers who have stood by them and the loyal diners who continue to pull up a chair, no matter the odds.
"Dining at Hurricane’s is all about gathering together and sharing a delicious meal in a beautiful setting. We pride ourselves in consistency and this is evident in the fact that we have been around for 30 years this July using the same secret basting sauce that was developed and is still made by my father-in-law.”
For those who have long associated the popular steakhouse with smoky, fall-off-the-bone ribs, Hurricane’s generous hospitality is as legendary as its proteins - serving up regular reminders that great dining is about more than just food. It’s about common connection, shared stories, plates piled high and the knowledge that no matter the setbacks, the best meals - and moments - are still ahead.
